The New England Patriots have a No. 87 on their offense, but it's not Rob Gronkowski. New England gave the legendary tight end's former number, which he wore throughout nine seasons with the Patriots, to newly acquired wide receiver Romeo Doubs. Gronkowski told FanDuel TV's Kay Adams that the team didn't reach out to him before making the controversial move.
"I'm not the one that makes the decisions over there," Gronkowski said. "I wasn't consulted at all, but I'm cool with it." Some Patriots fans may have been upset to see No. 87 recirculated, but Gronkowski didn't mind. In fact, the four-time Super Bowl champion placed an incredibly high bar on who deserves the honor of having their jersey put in the rafters.
"The only number that I truly believe that should be retired in New England ... is the number 12," Gronkowski said. "I mean, that's the only number that I truly believe. Tom (Brady) set the standard, and if you're not on that page, if you're not playing for 20 years, I don't think that any other number should be retired.
I think all other numbers should be very, very usable." Adams disagreed with the "worst take" Gronkowski has had in their four years together on FanDuel TV. The host condemned New England on the future Hall of Famer's behalf. "You're the greatest tight end to play the game of football," Adams said.
It is a failure by the organization I know and love." Gronkowski wouldn't pile on, but he didn't disavow Adams' harsh message either. "I plead the fifth over here, and your consulting right there was wonderful," Gronkowski said.
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